Two men have been arrested on suspicion of tendering counterfeit currency in Belfast.
Police reportedly discovered over £300 in fake notes as well as suspected class C drugs.
It follows a number of reports from retailers in Belfast City Centre and those who’ve set up stalls at the Christmas market.
A retailer who’d used a counterfeit detection pen contacted police, reporting the attempt to pass fake notes, which led to the arrests.
In response, the Crime Prevention Officer for the area has been visiting businesses to explain how to detect counterfeit notes.
Some advice on how to spot a fake note:
- Does the main printing feel raised?
- Can you see a bold and clear watermark when the note is held up to the light?
- Does the note feel crisp and not limp, waxy or shiny?
- Is the print clear, sharp and well defined?
- Are the colours clear and distinct? Compare the suspect note against a note which is known to be genuine.
- Is the security thread continuous when the note is held up to the light?
Please note, a counterfeit pen doesn’t detect all types of fake notes, only UV lights can!